Anticipated expansion plans include the addition of over 20 properties across Gulf countries by end of 2023 and the first Ritz-Carlton reserve in the region
Marriott International announces expansion plans of its Middle East footprint with the expected addition of over 20 properties and more than 5,000 rooms across the Gulf countries over the next 15 months. The company’s growth in the region is fuelled by ongoing demand for its world-class portfolio of hotel brands across Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates and increased interest from developers for conversions and adaptive reuse properties.
Growth in Saudi Arabia
Demand for lavish hotel offerings in Saudi Arabia is significant, particularly within developments such as the Red Sea Project and Diriyah Gate. Marriot International expects to grow with six additional luxury properties by the end of 2023 including St. Regis and EDITION hotel brands, the first Ritz-Carlton Reserve in the Middle East with the opening of Nujuma, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve in the Red Sea Project.
Growth in Qatar
Expansion plans include nearly doubling its presence in Qatar with 10 anticipated additions over the next 15 months, six of which are due to be unveiled ahead of this year’s global sporting spectacle. The additions will diversify the portfolio with debut of four brands, EDITION Hotels, Delta Hotels by Marriott, Element Hotels, and Autograph Collection Hotels. The company also expects to open its second St. Regis hotel in Qatar later this year, The St. Regis Marsa Arabia Island, The Pearl.
Expansion in the United Arab Emirates, Kuwait, and Oman
Marriott International continues to see opportunities in the UAE, to further expand its portfolio of more than 70 properties. This year, the expectation is to cross a milestone of 50 properties in Dubai, with anticipated additions including Marriott Resort Palm Jumeirah, Dubai, Delta Hotels by Marriott Green Community, Dubai and Four Points by Sheraton Production City, Dubai. Other renowned additions expected by the end of 2023 include St. Regis and Marriott Executive Apartments in Kuwait and the Aloft Hotels in Oman.
Demand for conversions and adaptive reuse projects
Whilst the company’s growth in the region is through new-build developments, the company continues to see an increase in conversion opportunities and demand for its desired brands in the region. Additionally, there is increased interest in the adaptive reuse space where developers are looking to convert existing buildings into hotel accommodations. Over 30 per cent of the company’s anticipated property additions in the region by the end of 2023 are expected to come from conversions and adaptive reuse projects.
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